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West Coast Editor Mark Vaughn: Small-business owners now have a slightly less expensive alternative to the

Porsche is said to be mulling focusing production of the next Panamera at its plant in Leipzig, Germany, in a move that could cost 800 jobs at parent Volkswagen.

Porsche is said to be mulling focusing production of the next Panamera at its plant in Leipzig, Germany, in a move that could cost 800 jobs at parent Volkswagen.

Porsche is said to be mulling focusing production of the next Panamera at its plant in Leipzig, Germany, in a move that could cost 800 jobs at parent Volkswagen.

Johnson Controls Power Solutions has expanded its Zwickau, Germany, AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery plant with a 100 million euro investment, making it the world's largest production facility for AGM batteries. This technology is used mainly for Start-Stop vehicles.

Magna International Inc. has announced that its Magna Seating operating unit has opened a new seat component manufacturing facility in Odzaci, Serbia, which will supply OEM customers including Smart, Renault and Ford.

The UK's telecommunications regulator, Ofcom, has published plans for a major trial that will test wireless transmitting technology to and from vehicles on a public road in Britain.

Audi plans to join Europe's booming subcompact SUV/crossover segment with a new model called the Q1, a report said.

The Tesla Model S has set the internet ablaze after one of its many copies collided with a large metallic object in the middle of the road and caught fire. No one was injured, and the sole occupant had enough time to exit the vehicle safely and call the authorities, the company reported.

According to the Regional Fire Authority of Kent, Washington, the car's lithium-ion battery pack was burning when firefighters arrived. The fire never entered the cabin; however, numerous holes had to be punctured into the battery pack to extinguish the fire completely.

While Tesla stock fell from $193 to $180 amidst coverage of the fire, the build quality and safety of the Tesla Model S should not worry any owner. After all, the electric sedan did receive the highest possible rating during crash tests.

Source : greencarreports.com

From GMM

Red Bull is perfecting a "system" that is mimicking the effects of banned traction control, Germany's Auto Motor und Sport reported on Thursday.

The magazine said the complex electronic mapping system, although entirely legal, is able to put Renault's V8 engine down to just four-cylinders under certain circumstances.

"I am sure for the races to come that we will be able to enhance the system even further -- to profit even more," world champion Sebastian Vettel told F1's official website.

He told reporters: "Other people will never figure out how we've done it."

Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton on Thursday stirred the pot by admitting Vettel's traction in Singapore was not normal.

"The last time I was able to put the pedal down that quick was back in 2007 or 2008, when we had traction control," he said.

Red Bull RB9-Renault. (Photo: WRi2)

But Ferrari's Fernando Alonso admitted Red Bull, whose engine he said has been emitting the odd tones in corners all season long, is doing nothing wrong.

"They are using something different compared to the other teams but something that is completely ok," he is quoted by the BBC.

Red Bull boss Christian Horner, however, admitted the rumours were frustrating.

"So we're running traction control through the ECUs which are supplied by McLaren and approved by the FIA?" he bristled at reporters.

"You'd have to be pretty stupid," added Horner.

Adapted from GMM

The FIA has backed Sebastian Vettel amid claims he is strolling to the 2013 title with a questionably-legal Red Bull.

Red Bull's Dr Helmut Marko has already dismissed the claims the RB9 is mimicking illegal traction control as "nonsense".

But former F1 team owner Giancarlo Minardi had said he saw and heard evidence with his own eyes and ears recently in Singapore, when Vettel was putting down the power 50 metres earlier than his rivals, while the Renault engine emitted traction control-like tones.

However, F1 race director Charlie Whiting has told Germany's Sport Bild: "(FIA technical delegate) Jo Bauer has found no irregularities. Everything is under our control, and Vettel's car complies with the regulations."

Red Bull and the FIA having dismissed suggestions it is illegal, Sebastian Vettel said on Thursday to the Associated Press: "We are pretty proud of the system. The others have to figure out how we have done it."

Red Bull RB9. (Photo: WRi2)

Meanwhile, according to Bild newspaper, Red Bull's determination to dominate F1 can be seen in the team's new EUR 100,000 jack.

The jack is reportedly designed to automatically lower the car once it detects that all four wheels have been secured during a pitstop.

Bild said Red Bull's powerful rivals including Ferrari and Mercedes are now working on similar systems.

Sahara Force India team manager Andy Stevenson is quoted as arguing the innovation should be banned.

"If no one has it, everyone's pitstop will be half a second slower. So who cares?" he said.

Kia Motors America today announced plans to offer an all-electric, zero-emission version of the popular Soul in select U.S. markets starting in 2014.

Details about the future Kia Soul EV remain scarce. We'll know more about the car's powertrain, range/MPGe, packaging, and go-to-market strategy “at an upcoming major U.S. auto show,” most likely in Los Angeles.

“Eco-consciousness already comes standard on the all-new Soul with 85% of its materials able to be recycled at the end of its lifespan, and the Soul EV will further demonstrate Kia's engineering capabilities as well as our commitment to producing vehicles with reduced environmental footprints,”said Orth Hedrick, executive director of product planning, Kia Motors America.

“The Soul has always been a terrific choice for drivers in urban environments, and the all-new version's blend of technology, refinement, style, improved dynamics and value has allowed us to create a car that is as efficient as it is fun to drive.”

From GMM

David Ward has admitted he might give up his bid to become FIA president.

Earlier, it was rumoured Ward's candidature to dethrone Jean Todt was a mere 'straw man' precursor to the real challenge to be made by Mohammad Bin Sulayem.

A spokesman for Bin Sulayem, the highest-ranking Middle Eastern FIA official, admitted the former rally driver has been encouraged to run but has made no decision yet.

Now, Briton Ward has been quoted by the Telegraph admitting that he could stand aside for Bin Sulayem if he has a better chance of success.

"If Mohammed thinks that my reform agenda is worthwhile and, if he is prepared to give solid undertakings and commitments to introduce it, then (standing aside) is something that I should look at," said Ward.

Mohammad Bin Sulayem, testing the Renault F1 in Dubai, in 2009. (Photo: WRi2)

Monticello, NY - The diesel debate rages on in North America. It has been a topic of contention for quite a while, and although stories on the subject pop up regularly, expect the number to continue to rise.

The stigmas surrounding diesel fuel are numerous and one of them is that it is a “lesser” form of energy, a dirty alternative reserved for trucks, and filthy people... Farther from the truth this could not be. Audi is here to demonstrate how plush (even refined) the technology now is.

The 2014 Audi A8 L TDI is the posh-est of A8s - the best of the lot - behind only the S8. The TDI is exceptionally smooth, quiet and powerful, perfectly matched to the A8's raison d'être. Everything else about this car is near perfection, as Audi has made us come to expect.


What is an Audi A8 L TDI?
The A8 is Audi's flagship sedan. As the brand's executive super limo, it stands and stretches head and tail above the rest of Audi's luxury lineup.

Audi (like Mercedes, for example) caters to those searching for power and prestige with the A8. The V6 TDI now lines up with the supercharged 3.0L V6, twin-turbo 4.0L V8 and nearly obnoxious 6.3L W12. The TDI may be destined more for luxury limo fleets, but should not be overlooked so quickly.

Other world markets are entitled to a 2.0T hybrid and 627 lb-ft 4.2L V8 TDI, both of which will doubtfully ever make it to North America.

As the brand's executive super limo, it stands and stretches head and tail above the rest of Audi's luxury lineup. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

2014 Audi A8 L TDI Price and Specs
The 2014 Audi A8 tips the pricing scale at $90,700 for starters. The TDI option tacks on $3,200 and the L, a further $7,500. The $101,400 total can be built upon with numerous options, easily pushing the price beyond the $120,000 mark.

The newly added 3.0L TDI engine boast 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. For those diesel non-believers, consider that this V6 is only 38 torques down from the turbo V8... An 8-speed automatic transmission differs the grunt to Audi's legendary Quattro AWD system with a self-locking centre differential.

A start-stop system, adaptive air suspension and Servotronic speed sensitive power steering are standard.

The newly added 3.0L TDI engine boast 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

Driving the 2014 Audi A8 L TDI
If it was up to me, the V8 turbo would be relegated to the S8 - this is how good both the TDI and supercharged V6 are. Both are powerful and extremely efficient, but I would (on every occasion) select the TDI.

Initial throttle tip is met with some delayed response, but once the torque gets going from 1,750 rpm, the big A8 will reach 100 km/hr in only 6.5 seconds. Quick as it may be, the V6 TDI feels just as at home roving about town quietly as it does flying far into its 4,750 rpm redline.

This is not how the 2014 Audi A8 L TDI is supposed to be driven. “Silken” is the word. The 8-speed box glides from one gear to another imperceptibly as the V6 doles out its power. Whether on country roads, in town or merging on the highway, the TDI will never disappoint.

Although generally not a consideration for those capable of spending six figures on a car, the TDI also relishes in less fuel consumption. An 8L/100 km average is very possible, matching or besting many midsize sedans.

On the road, the 2014 Audi A8's air suspension masks surface irregularities with skill. The car's dynamic steering firms up beautifully at speed, however, I would have liked more feedback. The brakes are surprisingly strong and capable of dealing with the car's overall girth.

Whether on country roads, in town or merging on the highway, the TDI will never disappoint. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

Inside and Out of the 2014 Audi A8 L TDI
The “L” in the 2014 Audi A8 L's name designates this particular car as sporting the longer wheelbase -- 13cm to be exact -- literally making it a glorified limousine.

For the 2014 model year, the A8 received a number of physical upgrades, especially up front. The revised bonnet, front grille, and bumper were sharpened somewhat and the final product remains one of the most attractive full-size sedans on the market. The jury's hung on Tesla's Model S as to whether or not it's better looking or not...

The 2014 A8's cabin is as sumptuous as any Audi, and more. The Valetta leather-clad seats are incredibly good and comfortable. Finding a perfect driving position occurs in moments thanks to the multiple adjustments.

Within the sumptuous woods and leathers is a well laid-out dash that requires some time to tame, but it all works wonderfully well after a short period.

The key to the “L” is the vast amounts of space reserved exclusively for the occupants. The rear seat is designed to cajole two passengers to the fullest and with the right options, it can and does.

The longer wheelbase -- 13cm to be exact -- literally making it a glorified limousine. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

Comparing the 2014 Audi A8 L TDI
The 2014 Audi A8 L plays hardball with the new Mercedes S-Class, the BMW 7 Series and Lexus LS. At this moment, the aforementioned Tesla Model S has proven to be the entire category's worst nightmare.

The A8 does benefit from being a “new money” purchase, and is considered a far hipper whip than the others - except for the Model S.

As Sebastien Ogier (Volkswagen) has one hand on the world championship title, he could be possibly crowned right after the Power Stage on Thursday in Strasbourg.

Ogier needs to score only one point in the remaining rounds of the season (France, Spain and Great Britain), considering also that Thierry Neuville (Ford) will clinch victory in each event, but also the three points awarded in the Power Stage in the three rallies.

Which means that, if Thierry Neuville does not set the fastest time in the Rallye de France's Power Stage, the title will immediately go to Ogier? This will be maybe done already on Thursday, as the Power Stage in the rallye de France will be ran in the very first special stage, while it was usually ran on the last super special in the previous rallies.

Thursday evening, Sebastien Ogier could already claim his very first world championship title in his career, and focus entirely on his duel with Sébastien Loeb (Citroën).

Sebastien Ogier. (Photo: Volkswagen Motorsport)

From GMM

Jules Bianchi is staying at Marussia in 2014, the team announced on Thursday.

The Ferrari-backed Frenchman had been tipped for a move up the grid next year, perhaps to Ferrari-powered Sauber.

But Marussia team boss John Booth said in a media statement that keeping Bianchi, 24, on board for 2014 is a "great pleasure".

"He rose to the challenge of his debut season exceptionally well and since that time has clearly demonstrated his ability and potential," said Booth.

Currently powered by departing supplier Cosworth, Marussia is switching to customer Ferrari engines in 2014.

Bianchi's current teammate is the well-backed Briton Max Chilton.

"We look forward to confirming our full race driver lineup later in the season," said Booth.

Jules Bianchi, Marussia MR02, at Spa-Francorchamps. (Photo: WRi2)

Although backed by the Ferrari rival McLaren, it is believed Kevin Magnussen is among those in the running to be Bianchi's teammate next year.

The F1 career of Magnussen's father, Jan, was short-lived, but McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh told El Confidencial: "We will make sure the same thing doesn't happen to Kevin."

Magnussen, 20, is closing in on the 2013 Formula Renault 3.5 title, with Whitmarsh adding: "He has a steely character and is more determined than his father."

But before Marussia turns its full attention to Bianchi's 2014 teammate, it is more focused on securing the lucrative tenth place in the constructors' championship -- particularly after The Times reported that the team has finally penned a financial agreement with Bernie Ecclestone.

It has also emerged that investor Andrei Cheglakov plans to clear Marussia's more than $200 million in debt.

"Our investors have met with some incredulity at the way F1 costs are run," said chief executive Andy Webb. "They were not expecting to enter a spending competition but they have put us on a solid footing and we are secure for the future."

However, F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone said recently that two or three teams are in danger of dropping off the grid.

"It's hard to say exactly what teams Bernie had in mind," Andy Webb told Russia's Championat, "but we are determined to move forward."

There are vehicles on the market that are people-movers, meaning they get you from point A to B. They do it well, but sometimes lack pizzazz or personality.

Then there are the people-moving cars that can transport up to seven bodies and have that extra zing that makes life on the road more enjoyable.

Enter the 2013 Dodge Journey R/T Rallye AWD. It's got a long name, yet is packed with meaning and a few bits of personality, too.


What is the Dodge Journey R/T Rallye AWD?
Dodge's Journey has been on the market since early 2008 and has been showered with praise and awards since. Heralded for its affordability, along with its ability to seat seven, the Journey isn't a minivan -- which to some automatically works in its favour. Furthermore, the access to 1,047 litres of storage space with the third and second row seats down, and 303 litres with both rows up, makes it attractive to those who have families or people, pets or anything in between to shuttle around.

Heralded for its affordability, along with its ability to seat seven, the Journey isn't a minivan -- which to some automatically works in its favour. (Photo: Alexandra Straub)

2013 Dodge Journey RT Rallye Price and Specs
With 283 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque generated from the 2013 Dodge Journey's 3.6L V6 engine you can get up to speed with little issue. Whether travelling alone or with a full cabin, there's bite behind the V6's growl.

While you might not put it to good use all the time, the R/T Rallye comes with an all-wheel drive system. Front-wheel drive is available as well, in case that satisfies the needs of your daily driving.

$32,795 is the base MSRP for this eye-catching model. With all the extras, including destination charges, you're looking at $38,890.

While you might not put it to good use all the time, the R/T Rallye comes with an all-wheel drive system. (Photo: Alexandra Straub)

Driving the 2013 Journey R/T Rallye AWD
The first time the Journey and I met, I wasn't fully impressed. I felt it was big, bulky, and underwhelming. Plus, the materials used for fit and finish were subpar. That was a few years ago.

My following, and most recent rendez-vous with Dodge's crossover, proved to be much more favourable. While it's still not a small vehicle, the 2013 Dodge Journey didn't feel overtly hefty. The materials used inside were considerably better -- not to mention the design is more pleasing to the eye.

Getting back to the 2013 Dodge Journey's size, its firm-feel power steering made it amenable to get around town. Though I found the "firm feel" to be a little deceptive. I would have preferred more stiffness. However, that didn't mean it couldn't get the job done -- because it did, and did it well.

Add in a high-performance suspension, and a previously sleepy vehicle to drive came to life.

The materials used inside were considerably better -- not to mention the design is more pleasing to the eye. (Photo: Alexandra Straub)

Inside and Out of the 2013 Dodge Journey R/T Rallye AWD
Ad the letters/words "R/T" and "Rallye" to any Dodge product and you know you won't get the short end of the stick. A Brilliant Red Tri-Coat Pearl paint job (an additional $300) drapes the crossover's exterior and makes it pop against any backdrop. Then there's the 2013 Dodge Journey's mesh grille up front, 19" machined cast-aluminum, 10-spoke satin silver wheels on the side and a rotund rear end to round out the exterior.

Inside, black leather seats complemented by red stitching welcome occupents.

From the driver's seat, an 8.4" touchscreen acts as command central on the centre stack. Here I could access the Garmin Navigation System along with a CD/DVD/MP3 player, and saw what was going on behind me when in reverse thanks to a ParkView rear back-up camera. These features came as part of the Navigation and Sound Group I ($825), which is well worth it. Even for the camera alone, because rearward visibility is obstructed by a shallow windshield on the 2013 Dodge Journey R/T Rallye. Who wants a feature that makes everyday driving easier?! Raise your hand. I do. I do.

When it came to accessing the third-row seats, I had to pull out the elbow-grease for that one. The second row moved forwards with little issue, it was pushing it back that gave me a good workout -- on both arms.

Inside, black leather seats complemented by red stitching welcome occupents. (Photo: Alexandra Straub)

Comparing the 2013 Dodge Journey R/T Rallye AWD
Other vehicles that fall into the category of competitors with the Dodge Journey R/T Rallye are the Hyundai Santa Fe XL, Kia Sorento, Ford Edge/Explorer, and Chevrolet Equinox.

From GMM

The FIA has scuppered McLaren's plans to test Pirelli tyres with a 2011 car at the US grand prix venue in Austin, it emerged on Thursday.

Germany's Auto Motor und Sport said the British team and F1's tire supplier planned to do the 1000km test in mid October, but did not get the green light from the FIA.

The report said the FIA baulked because the test, which would have been funded by Pirelli, would have taken place mere weeks ahead of the grand prix at the very same venue in Texas, USA.

"The competition, including McLaren rival Force India, had complained," wrote correspondent Michael Schmidt.

"Now, Pirelli and McLaren will have to find another track to test the new-generation tires."

Photo: WRi2

From press release

Sébastien Ogier has secured the 2013 FIA WRC drivers' title after Dani Sordo went fastest through tonight's opening stage of Rallye de France - Alsace. 

The 4.55km test through the streets of Strasbourg was always likely to prove decisive because as the nominated Power Stage it offered three bonus points to the winner.  

Thierry Neuville, the only man with a chance of catching Ogier's championship lead, needed all three points to stay in the fight. So when his time was confirmed as 0.7sec slower than Sordo's, Ogier was home and dry, no matter what happens on this or the two rallies that remain this year. 

“I'm so happy!” said a delighted Ogier at the finish control. “Before the stage I was a bit confused about whether it would happen, but we're here and we managed to do it!” 

“Eight years we've worked for this!” added his co-driver Julien Ingrassia.

Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia, 2013 WRC world champions. (Photo: Volkswagen Motorsport)

The pair climbed onto the roof of their Polo R in celebration, cheered on by crowds of fans and Volkswagen management including rally team boss Jost Capito. Outgoing world champion Sebastien Loeb, who followed Ogier through the stage, was quick to offer his own congratulations. 

Citroen DS3 WRC driver Sordo now leads the rally from Neuville, with Ogier third, 0.1sec further back. It was another great performance from Sordo, who won the last all-asphalt round in Germany and who was fastest on this morning's shakedown.

From GMM

Sergio Perez, and billionaire backer Carlos Slim Domit, have admitted Mexico's place on the 2014 calendar is not guaranteed.

Indeed, the race on the former and ageing grand prix venue in Mexico City has been given only a provisional date on next year's schedule.

"I'm very excited," said 23-year-old Sergio Perez, the McLaren driver who is backed by Slim-linked Mexican companies. "It's not confirmed yet, it's just a pre-calendar but I feel there are very big chances now of this happening."

Slim Domit also told Mexico Today: "It (Mexico) is a stable country, our economy is doing quite well and we have drivers people can identify with.

"All of the pieces are coming together and I believe the potential promoters are doing a good job in trying to secure something," he added.

Photo: WRi2

Mexico is one of three races given only provisional status on the unprecedentedly-long 2014 calendar, the others being New Jersey and Korea.

But Sam Michael, McLaren sporting director, said that even if they all go ahead, F1 can cope.

"F1 is about achieving things that are not normally possible, and this is far from the worst challenge we have had," he said, suggesting the financial benefits of an expanded calendar will outweigh the hurdles.